Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has raised concerns about President Bola Tinubu's prolonged absence from Nigeria. Obi questioned Tinubu's whereabouts, particularly his absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. This query came after Obi watched an address by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama at the global gathering. Obi's statement, released through his spokesman Idris Zekeri Jnr, highlighted the significance of Nigeria's presence on the international stage.
Obi contrasted Mahama's presence at the UN with Tinubu's absence, emphasizing that Nigeria, with over 200 million people, should have its leader represented at major international engagements. He noted that Tinubu has missed three consecutive UN General Assembly gatherings, sparking questions about Nigeria's visibility globally. According to Obi, Nigeria's President ought to be guiding the continent at the international level, particularly during times of significant domestic and international challenges.
Although Vice-President Kashim Shettima attended the UNGA on behalf of the Federal Government, Obi stated that this did not settle the question over Tinubu's absence. Shettima led Nigeria's delegation to the 81st UNGA following Tinubu's directive. Obi acknowledged Shettima's presence but reiterated that the question remains: where is the President? This development has added to public discussion about Tinubu's prolonged stay abroad.
President Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for a working vacation in Europe, initially planned for three weeks. He traveled to London and later Paris, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré. The Presidency announced that Tinubu extended his stay abroad and was expected to return at the weekend. However, his itinerary was adjusted again, with sources indicating his return to Nigeria on Tuesday, September 29.
The latest adjustment to Tinubu's itinerary has sparked further debate about the length of his stay abroad and his absence from the UN gathering. Obi's query has resonated with many Nigerians, who are concerned about the implications of the President's prolonged absence. As the nation grapples with significant challenges, the President's presence on the international stage is seen as crucial.
In his statement, Obi called for prayers for Tinubu's return and leadership. He expressed hope that "a New Nigeria is possible" and urged Nigerians to continue praying for the President's return. Obi's intervention has sparked a national conversation about the President's absence and the need for transparency about his whereabouts.
The development has raised questions about the impact of Tinubu's absence on Nigeria's international relations and domestic governance. As the nation awaits the President's return, many are watching closely to see how his prolonged absence will affect the country's leadership and global standing. The President's return is expected to provide clarity on his absence and the future of Nigeria's leadership.
Key points
- Peter Obi questions President Tinubu's prolonged absence from Nigeria and the UNGA.
- Vice-President Kashim Shettima attended the UNGA on behalf of the Federal Government.
- President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria on Tuesday, September 29.
